Orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians specialize in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. Sports medicine focuses on treating injuries with non-surgical methods, such as physical therapy. High-impact sports can cause injuries to your musculoskeletal system, and treatment for a variety of issues range from soft-tissue injuries of muscles and ligaments, including sprains and ruptures; to stress fractures, osteoarthritis and cancer. Surgery, prescription medications and physical rehabilitation are ways to treat these injuries.